1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2007 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 260 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2007 Toyota 4Runner.
Because 2007 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2007 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | S3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
